Explore the vast range of titles available.

Sexual health literacy (SHL) is a set of skills related to sexual behaviors that can affect sexual behavior and empower individuals to maintain as well as improve their sexual health. This study aimed to investigate the rural women's sexual health literacy and its related factors in Iran. This cross-sectional study was conducted on 200 married women of reproductive ages referring to health center in Benaroyeh region along with six sub-villages in the South of Fars, Iran. Using convenience sampling method, we collected data via demographic-reproductive characteristics questionnaire and sexual health literacy for adult’s questionnaire. We analyzed data using SPSS-16. Approximately 33.5% of the women obtained their sexual information online. The mean total SHL score was 75.64 ± 12.81. The SHL level was considered desirable in 82.5% of the participants. Among the four domains of SHL, the scores of most subjects on access skills and analysis-evaluation skills were unfavorable, 24.5% and 35.5%, respectively. The results show that the SHL level was correlated with education ( P  = 0.021) and inversely related to the gravidity ( P  = 0.04). There was also a statistically significant relationship between SHL level and women's career ( P  = 0.026), spouse's career ( P  = 0.01), and parity ( P  = 0.05). Most rural women had desirable levels of SHL. Given the lower levels of SHL in access and analysis-evaluation skills, and given the prevalence of Internet use, the provision of high quality and accessible online sexual health content within social and cultural norms is recommended.

Evidence suggests that lumbar disc herniation ( LDH) influences sexual function to a great deal. However, most existing studies have been conducted on men. Thus, the current study aimed to assess sexual function and its correlates in women with acute LDH. This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 350 women of reproductive age with acute LDH in Fasa, Iran in 2023. The mean score of female sexual function was 21.33 (3.38). Almost 80% of women had sexual dysfunction. Women scored lower on sexual desire and the higher on lubrication. As the severity of LDH increased, arousal, lubrication and sexual pain score decreased and low back pain (LBP) score increased ( p  < 0.05). The number of sexual activities after disc herniation was significantly lower in the women with sexual dysfunction ( p  < 0.001). Regression analysis showed a significant association between sexual dysfunction and LBP intensity (OR = 1.13, CI 1.02–1.26, p  = 0.01) and lumbar disc herniation intensity (OR = 2.22, CI 1.07–4.62, p  = 0.03). Lumbar disc herniation (LDH) may significantly affect women's sexual function. Severity of low back pain and severity of lumbar disc herniation were found to be risk factors for sexual dysfunction in this population.

Background Despite extensive literature on lumbar disc herniation and cauda equina syndrome, sexual dysfunction in these patients has been overlooked. We conducted a systematic review to gather scientific evidence on this issue following surgical treatment in this population. Methods On January 30, 2025, several databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar, were searched on the topic for English-language biomedical literature from 2014 to 2024. Two researchers assessed the quality of the articles using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool version 2018. The findings were narratively synthesized to effectively describe, compare, and combine the study results. Results A total of 5,893 studies were identified, but after removing duplicates and irrelevant documents, only 20 studies were eligible for analysis. Of these, 90% were rated as high quality, indicating a strong level of certainty in the evidence. The analysis revealed that the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in this population ranged from 26.6% to 100%. The most common sexual disorder among women was sexual desire and arousal disorder (35% to 60%), while erectile dysfunction was the most prevalent among men (14% to 100%). Overall, dissatisfaction with sexual activities was reported by 37% to 69% of women and 69% of men. Improvements in sexual function following surgery for lumbar disc herniation were noted in 83.33% of studies (5 out of 6), compared to only 7.14% in patients with cauda equina syndrome (1 out of 14 studies). Conclusion Studies indicated a considerable enhancement in sexual function post-surgery for lumbar disc herniation patients (68% to 99%). However, long-term follow-up of cauda equina syndrome patients revealed that many continued to experience sexual issues (14% to 100%).

Background Sexual abuse of children and adolescents is a significant health concern worldwide. Appropriate and timely health services for victims can prevent severe and long-term consequences. This study identified and categorized diagnostic and treatment services needed for sexually abused children and adolescents. Methods Several databases, including MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, Science Direct, ProQuest, and Google Scholar, were searched to retrieve studies on the topic and clinical guidelines in English covering the literature from 2010 to 2020 using search terms. Primary studies and guidelines were reviewed to identify treatment strategies and medical interventions related to sexually abused children and adolescents. Results Twenty-one studies and guidelines were selected and analyzed narratively. The quality of evidence was relatively good. We identified that effective health care systems for sexually abused children include the following: interview and obtain medical history, physical and anogenital examination, collecting forensic and DNA evidence, documenting all the findings, prevention and termination of pregnancy, diagnostic tests, prophylaxis for HIV and other STIs, vaccinations, and psychological intervention. Conclusions This review provides up-to-date evidence about adequate health care services for children and adolescent victims of sexual abuse. We conclude that recent studies have focused more on prophylaxis against HIV and other STIs, studies on vaccinating against HPV for victims are still limited, and future research in this area is needed.

Background and Aims Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a common and disabling condition that can negatively affect sexual health. Although CLBP is classified as specific or non‐specific based on underlying pathology, whether these etiologies differentially influence women's sexual function and sexual quality of life remains unclear. This study compared these outcomes between women with specific and non‐specific CLBP. Methods In this comparative cross‐sectional study (2024, Rasoul Akram Hospital, Tehran), 102 married women aged 15–49 years with CLBP were enrolled (51 specific, 51 non‐specific). Data were collected using validated Persian versions of the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and Sexual Quality of Life–Female (SQOL‐F) questionnaire. Group comparisons were performed using independent t‐tests and chi‐square tests. Multivariable linear regression was applied to adjust for potential confounders. Results are reported as mean differences and β coefficients with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results Mean (SD) FSFI scores were 23.97 (3.01) in the specific CLBP group and 23.72 (4.14) in the non‐specific group (mean difference: 0.25, 95% CI: −1.17 to 1.67; p = 0.70; Cohen's d = 0.07). SQOL‐F scores were similarly low and comparable (mean difference: 0.16, 95% CI: −1.28 to 1.60; p = 0.62; Cohen's d = 0.04). No clinically meaningful differences were observed across FSFI domains. Higher sexual activity frequency was associated with higher FSFI scores. In the non‐specific CLBP group, cesarean delivery (β = 2.80, 95% CI: 1.37 to 4.23; p = 0.01) and nulliparity (β = 4.10, 95% CI: 1.74 to 6.46; p = 0.02) were associated with better sexual function. Conclusion No meaningful differences were observed between CLBP etiologies; however, low scores in both groups highlight the need to integrate sexual health into multidisciplinary CLBP care.

Background Parenting a child with disabilities can feel isolating and overwhelming. Understanding the health challenges of parents with disabled children is essential for providing effective healthcare. This study aims to offer a comprehensive view of the health challenges faced by these parents by synthesizing existing literature from various perspectives. Method This scoping review conducted using the JBI scoping review method. Searches were performed on PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases spanning from 2014 to 2024. The initial search yielded 388 articles, with 24 articles undergoing qualitative assessment and data analysis via narrative synthesis. Results From the 24 selected articles, three health challenges were identified: physical, emotional, and social health challenges. Conclusion Parents of children with disabilities face intricate health challenges, including physical challenges like fatigue, musculoskeletal pain, and sleep issues. Additionally, they experience significant emotional strain, with symptoms of depression, anxiety, and hopelessness. Social isolation and stigma further compound these challenges. A collaborative approach involving healthcare professionals, policymakers, and support organizations can empower parents to thrive in their caregiving roles.

Purpose To provide an understanding of the changes in sexual function in women with genital warts. Methods In this review study, databases searched included: PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library of Systematic Reviews, Google Scholar, ProQuest, Wiley, and Highwire Press. No study design limitations were applied to the initial search, and qualitative and quantitative studies published between 2005 and 2021 were included. Results 19 articles were selected and analyzed narratively. The quality of the studies was almost good. The findings were classified into three groups: The prevalence of sexual dysfunction in women with genital warts (GWs) and Human Papillomavirus (HPV); Types of sexual dysfunction in women with genital warts, and associated factors; Psychosexual effects of genital warts. Conclusion This study provides up-to-date evidence of the changes in sexual function in women with genital warts. Although the results of most studies showed that women with genital warts experienced sexual dysfunction in almost all dimensions, differences in study design and study population made it difficult to determine the specific type of disorder such as libido, or arousal disorders in these women. Based on the findings of this review, more research in this field is recommended for the future. Systematic review registration : (PROSPERO: CRD42020188584, https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=188584 ).

Background Despite its important role in adolescent sexual health, sexuality education remains one of the most challenging responsibilities of families, especially those living in Muslim communities which experience the transition to modernity. There is little information about sexuality education of boys in Iran. This study aimed to explore parents’ approaches to sexuality education of adolescent boys in Ahvaz, southwest of Iran. Methods This qualitative study was conducted in 2017 in Ahvaz, Iran. Participants were selected through purposeful sampling with maximum variation. Qualitative data were collected by conducting semi-structured in-depth interviews and focused group discussions with 27 parents from middle/high social class who had adolescent boys aged between 10 and 19. Data were analyzed using conventional qualitative content analysis. Results Parents’ approaches to sexuality education of their boys emerged in six categories: Extreme monitoring and restricting; abstinence as the main content of sexuality education; struggling to establish peace and achieve tolerance; criticizing the cultural taboos; hoping for spontaneous learning; and uncertainty and confusion. The theme “Transition from tradition to modernity” emerged from these categories. Conclusion Parents’ approaches to sexuality education ranged from a restrictive traditional manner to approaches with some degree of modern attitudes. Parents are facing uncertainty and confusion regarding sexuality education. Abstinence is an underlying assumption in their sexuality education style. Educating parents through culturally-appropriate methods is a priority that is more acceptable at the policy level. Lack of understanding of the need for sexuality education of children in some parents can threaten the sexual health of children. Plain language summary Children’s sexuality education has an important role in adolescent sexual behaviors and health. However, it is one of the most challenging dimensions of education in families, especially in Muslim communities experiencing the transition to modernity. There is little information about sexuality education of adolescent boys in Iran. In this study we aimed to explore parents’ experiences and perceptions of communicating sexuality education with their sons. Data were collected through individual interview with 11 parents and group discussion with 8 fathers and 8 mothers who had sons aged 10–19, living in Ahvaz, in south west of Iran. We summarized and categorized parents’ approaches to sexuality education in categories including: Extreme monitoring and restricting; abstinence as the main content of sexuality education; struggling to establish peace and achieve tolerance; criticizing the cultural taboos; hoping for spontaneous learning; and uncertainty and confusion. Parents’ approaches to sexuality education ranged from a restrictive traditional manner to some degree of modern conduct. Findings imply that parents are facing challenges regarding sexuality education: uncertainty about the necessity of it, and confusion between religious teachings and modernity. Abstinence is still a central assumption and pre-marital sex is off-limits in their sexuality education. They hoped that they could enhance the children’s adherence to family’s values regarding sexuality, by establishing a peaceful relationship with them. These findings provide evidence for culturally-appropriate educational programs for parents to improve their skills and knowledge about sexuality education. These findings highlighted the fact that Iranian parents are experiencing a “Transition from tradition to modernity”.

Sexual health in women with lumbar disk herniation (LDH) in Iran is underexplored, despite its substantial impact on quality of life. This study aimed to explore the sexual health challenges of women with LDH and identify management strategies. This qualitative study conducted in-depth interviews with seven women diagnosed with LDH and six sexual health experts. Participants were chosen according to their scores on the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) questionnaire to ensure a diverse representation across high, medium, and low sexual function levels. A conventional content analysis approach was used to analyze data during collection. The analysis identified two main categories and 11 subcategories. The first category, \"Challenging sexual relationships with back pain\", included six subcategories: pain during sex, sexual desire disorder, orgasmic dysfunction, reduced frequency and duration of sexual intercourse, and post-sexual dysfunction. The second category, \"Coping strategies and advice\", included five strategies: improving communication, applying pain-relief techniques, choosing appropriate sexual positions, seeking partner support, reducing penetration time, and promoting mental health and spiritual well-being. This study highlights the interrelation of sexual pain and mood disorders has led to a significant reduction in both the frequency and duration of sexual intercourse, resulting in many women being unable to achieve orgasm. Tailored interventions that focus on the physical, emotional, and relational aspects of sexual health are crucial for improving the overall well-being of these women.

Background Genital warts, besides their importance as symptoms of sexually transmitted infections, can also threaten the sexual health of couples. The purpose of this study was to explore the sexual compatibility in women with active genital warts. Methods A qualitative study with a conventional content analysis approach in Tehran, Iran, from January 2019 to February 2020 was conducted on a purposeful sample of data saturation achieved after interviewing 14 women with genital warts, 2 couples and 3 dermatologists, 1 sexologist and 1 infectious disease specialist. Data were collected through unstructured interviews and analyzed using conventional content analysis approach. Results After data analysis 224 initial codes, 5 main categories “change in the frequency of sexual activity”, “changing types of sexual intercourse”, “protected sexual intercourse”, “concealment of lesions”, “focusing on personal hygiene by couples after sexual activity” and finally a central theme of “adaptation to challenges of sexual intercourse” were extracted. Conclusions This study revealed the perceptions and experiences of women with active genital warts about the process of their sexual adaptation. The main concepts found in this study focus on challenges related to sexual intercourse. It seems that recognizing women’s sexual adaptation challenges after getting genital warts may help them take effective and practical measures to improve their sexual compatibility and health.